4 things every parent should know before choosing a dance studio

1. What type of dance floor is used?

Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent against potential injury is by choosing a studio with a professional “floating floor”. A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high-density foam, to absorb the shock of jumping. A high-density foam base is superior to a “sprung” floor, which usually consists of a wood structure built on the regular floor.

The top layer of the dance floor is also an important factor. A vinyl composite “marley” floor is accepted worldwide as the best surface layer for recreational to professional dance. A marley floor allows dancers to slide, with a degree of “controlled slip”, but is not slippery so there is less risk of slips and falls. Very few studios use professional marley floors because of the expense involved, and usually opt for a regular floor tile for a studio floor.

All of our studios have floating floors that have high density foam blocks under the floor surface and a marley top surface. Our special floors help reduce the risk of injuries and allow students to dance longer without getting tired.

2. What is the size of the class?

If the dance class has fewer students in it, each child will receive more personalized attention, will learn more, and will have more fun. With younger students it is easier for a teacher to maintain control over the class and make sure each student understands the concepts and instructions. Our smaller class sizes make sure that no fundamental concepts are being missed. A small class size also allows our teachers to ensure that students are not developing bad habits or improper technique.

Our studio limits all of our classes (ages 6 and up) to a maximum of just 12 students per class. With our “junior” classes (ages 3-5) we limit all of our classes to a maximum of just 8 students per class.

3. What are the “extras” required for recitals?

Most studios put on a year end show in a professional theatre. Students that perform in the show must have a costume for their dance number. Some studios may require parents to sew their child’s costumes, or pay extra and the parents must find their own seamstress to do the sewing. This can be inconvenient and frustrating for parents who are busy or can’t sew.

Our studio uses our own professional seamstress to sew or alter the costumes, so parents do not have to worry about any costume hassles. We also rent costumes for our annual “Holiday Show”, so that parents do not have to purchase and retain costumes 2 times per year.

4. What is the quality of the faculty?

In many studios, older dance students or high-school students may be the teacher for classes year-round. These teachers may lack the maturity and professionalism that is required to work with young dancers. Professional teachers are specially trained to work with young dancers, and are specialists in certain areas of dance. At our studio, all of our instructors are qualified and specialists in the areas of dance that they teach. These instructors are passionate about dance, and have the necessary skills to help all of our dancers advance.